The Future

There are many dedicated Newfoundland Pony owners and breeders located across Canada as well as a few in the U.S.A. producing Newfoundland ponies listed and recognized by the Newfoundland Pony Society. However, the Newfoundland Pony is not an officially recognized "breed". It is considered a pony "type". Pedigrees were not formally recorded for the pony until the 1980’s.

It is the goal of Newfoundland Pony breeders to obtain purebred status for the Newfoundland Pony under The Animal Pedigree Act (APA) of Canada. The APA demands that certain criteria be followed in order to obtain purebred status. An association representing the pony breeders is a prerequisite and this group must be incorporated under the APA. The Act makes no consideration for the historical significance of the pony so it is in this context that the Newfoundland Pony must make a place for itself in today’s equine world.

Purebred status is seen the next logical step toward long-term survival of the Newfoundland Pony. The term "purebred" is recognized and understood internationally. Attainment of this goal will place the Newfoundland Pony on par with the other commonly recognized pony breeds. It will add value and significance to the pony in the eyes of the equine world.

The Newfoundland Pony of today has all of the assets of its ancestors and probably a few more. For four hundred years it has survived in the harshest of conditions, which only the hardiest creatures can endure. At the same time, it has never lost its affinity for working side by side with people. It is strong, intelligent, adaptable, willing and congenial but most of all, it is a survivor.

With continued support from concerned individuals, groups and corporations in Newfoundland, across Canada and beyond, the prospects for the survival of the Newfoundland Pony, while not yet assured, are improving annually. With the dedication of countless volunteers, the Newfoundland Pony we know and love will eventually be recognized as one of the most historically significant pony breeds in the world.

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